Richard Simmons' funeral attended only by family and closest friends as he's buried in private ceremony in LA

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: A private funeral for Richard Simmons was held on July 19 in Los Angeles, nearly a week after his passing.

“Our beloved Dicky was laid to rest this morning surrounded by only family and closest friends,” his older brother, Lenny Simmons, shared with People in a statement from his longtime publicist, Tom Estey, adding, "We pray for your continued love and support during this very difficult time.”

What happened to Richard Simmons?

Simmons died on July 13, the day after celebrating his 76th birthday.

First responders arrived in response to a 911 call made by his housekeeper, and Simmons was pronounced dead at the scene, reportedly due to natural causes.

Richard reportedly also mentioned feeling dizzy before collapsing in his bathroom

However, according to The Guardian, The Los Angeles police department (LAPD) has announced that the unexpected death of the fitness icon is currently being investigated by the medical examiner.

While there is no suspicion of foul play, the police case will remain open until the medical examiner's investigation determines the official cause of death. This process, which includes conducting lab tests, may take several weeks to complete.

“We are awaiting the final cause of death ruling from the coroner’s office before we can officially close the case,” Norma Eisenman, public information officer for the LAPD said Tuesday.

“There is no foul play,” the LAPD said.

During his funeral, Simmons' older brother urged fans to "remember him for the genuine joy and love he brought to people’s lives," highlighting that "he truly cared about people" as he "called, wrote, and emailed thousands of individuals throughout his career to offer help."

“So don’t be sad,” Lenny encouraged. “Celebrate his life.”

Where was Richard Simmons buried?

As per TMZ reports, the legendary fitness guru was buried at the Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary.

Over the past ten years, there has been widespread speculation about the former celebrity fitness coach's whereabouts and health, especially after Simmons retreated from public life isince 2014 following a prominent four-decade career.

In March, Simmons disclosed that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer under his eye.

That same month, he shared a poignant message on social media, stating, "I am ., b..,,,. B..b..,,,,.b,!b.b.,.. dying. The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live, we are getting closer to our death."se

He later clarified that he was not in fact dying and that his message was intended to inspire his fans.

In an interview with People magazine shortly before his death, Simmons shared his sense of gratitude for life and pride in having brought discussions about fitness and healthy living into the mainstream.

Richard Simmons' fans express their condolences after his sudden death

Fans were stunned by his death, which occurred especially a day after Simmons took to his X account to thanks his fans their well-wishes on his birthday on 12 July.

He wrote, "Thank you…I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday. Love, Richard.

One viewer expressed, "Glad he felt the love he deserved before he passed."

Another viewer shared, "I’m glad he was able to see the love people had for him on his 76th birthday!"

One viewer pointed out, "We love you Richard. I’m so happy you came back and we got to see that you were happy and at peace. If anyone deserves to be at Heaven’s Gates it’s you."

A follower observed, "One day after your 76 birthday #RichardSimmons you were called home. A bright shining light for so many! RIP always. #brightlights #HealthAwareness #health #Happiness."

One comment stated, "I’m glad that you got to see that you were Loved man. Rest in Paradise."

Another comment read, "Rest in peace kind soul. You had an amazing impact on the world."

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